The introduction of modern technologies is harmful to underdeveloped areas of the world.

The introduction of modern technologies is harmful to underdeveloped areas of the world.

11:30-12:00

Many of us in the modern world take things for granted but imagine what life would be like without these conveniences from technology. Underdeveloped nations face endemic problems such as famine, health issues such as epidemics, poor infrastructure and corrupt government authority. In response to this many western powers and other developed nations make an attempt to alleviate these problems by visiting underdeveloped countries and introducing new modern technology. However, both the pros and cons  of this assistance should be analyzed.

First consider the benefits of introducing modern technology to an underdeveloped country. One of the major benefits is concerned with the health of the population. Modern medical advances  such as vaccinations against common illnesses, regular health check ups, establishment of health care facilites, and overall enforcement of sanitary living conditions are some steps taken by developed nations to assist the unfortunate. Vaccinations and science education are significant steps in enhancing the quality of life in underdeveloped nations in Africa and Bangladesh. In both instances, malaria, chicken pox, dengue fever, and a multitude of viral and often treated conditions in the western world were causing major deaths. Vaccines have dramatically reduced the number of infant deaths especially because there is an inverted population pyramid that can not sustain or generate successful future generations. Other advances in these nations are enhancement of fulfilling biological needs such as clean drinking water, renewable energy, and sanitary living conditions. Clean drinking is a scarcity and has become reality for many by new methods such as reverse osmosis of rain water and ocean water that have been stored in reservoirs for use. Renewable energy has been possible by installing solar panels and water powered turbines to generate electricity for the population. Last but not least, hygienic practices such as using hand soap, installing toilets and bathroom cleaners have significantly reduced the likelihood of disease outbreak.

On the other hand, there are disadvantages to be considered when introducing modern technology to an underdeveloped country. One of the major disadvantages is poor governmental control and corruption. In this case, new technology is a finite quantity but only a handful may receive it because of the Malthusian ethic. Many African nations face this problem of corruption where humanitarian resources and aid offered by western powers does not often reach the people who need it most. Also, these resources are used to cause social inequality by enhancing the quality of life of the wealthy and leaving the poor to be their peasants. In addition, the promise of helping the needy in underdeveloped countries, comes with a problem of corporations becoming greedy in using their land in generating ridiculous profits at the expense of the natural environment. While underdeveloped countries have implemented these rules, enforcement of environmental protection is harmed by corruption. Lastly, new technologies cause problems that people may not have sufficient knowledge to use them.

In all, modern technology is beneficial to underdeveloped countries in certain circumstances. Technology is beneficial only when everyone knows how to use it correctly to benefit everyone in the community in terms of improving health and living conditions. On the other hand, technology may be harmful by causing societal divisions based on wealth and class where the wealthier classes use the technology for their benefit by corruption, and to undermine the importance of helping fellow needy citizens. There needs to be a fine line between technology helping people versus harming them.